The USGBC has been busy this month including live blogging from Copenhagen, a deal with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and finalizing video from Greenbuild 2009.

When many organizations may be slowing down their operations as the year comes to a close, the U.S. Green Building Council is still working to promote green building practices across the nation.

USGBC at Copenhagen

Although the Copenhagen Climate Summit is over, the talks are still making the news. The USGBC set up a new blog to track green building related news from Copenhagen. On Friday, December 18, the USGBC hosted a dinner with leaders from several countries including the United States, United Kingdom, and China. The topic of conversation for the evening – how green building is expanding in these countries. Read more from the USGBC COP15 blog.

LEED AP Exams Reimbursable Through the VA

The Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI), the organization responsible for overseeing the LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) exams, recently announced that the exam fees are reimbursable by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs as part of the G.I. Bill.

“Individuals planning to take a LEED Professional Exam must apply directly to the VA for reimbursement. Under this agreement, the VA will cover up to $2,000 per exam. Anyone who took a LEED Professional Exam after December 3, 2008 is eligible for reimbursement. Those interested in applying and learning more about the program and related certification benefits should view the VA's pamphlet on licenses and certifications.“ Source: GBCI

Greenbuild 2009 Master Speaker Videos

The videos of the Master Speakers from Greenbuild 2009 are now available on the USGBC website. The opening keynote and celebration, executive roundtable, school board roundtable, and the residential summit are just a few of the many videos now available free of charge from the USGBC. View the full list: Greenbuild 2009 Speaker Videos.